National Tourism Organisation (NTO) of Montenegro revealed that the historical military submarine 'Hero' ('Heroj) P-82 is now open to the public, following the official opening ceremony attended by First Commander, Army of Montenegro, Tomislav Drašković and majority investor, Porto Montenegro, Peter Munk at Porto Montenegro in Tivat.
The "former pride of the Yugoslav Naval Warfare," which has not been used since 1991, has been reconstructed following an initiative of the non-governmental organisation Podmorničar (Submariner) from the town of Tivat. Boasting 50m in length, the submarine features air-conditioning and authentically refurbished interiors. Originally built in 1968 in the now Croatian city of Split, it is an engineering project of former Yugoslav experts.
"A total of 46 years have passed, we grew old together and had sailed along various courses," said Drašković, who did the test drive of the submarine almost half a century ago.
"After so many years, this submarine, resembling a dressed-up opera singer who had sung out all its opera repertoire, and I, like its old conductor, stand before you today. The Hero had conducted its earmarked peacetime tasks, as I, its first trial commander, was building my career."
Referring to the submarine, vice president, Tivat Municipality, Krsto Bošković added: "It is a testament to the technological reach of former Yugoslavia. I am especially glad that this submarine was used in humanitarian missions and did not take part in combat functions."
Commander of the Navy, Montenegro, Darko Vuković stressed that this project is of vast importance for Montenegro. "Both the big submarine 821 and the small diversion submarine had patiently awaited and welcomed their new mission. May they tell their story for a long time and may their crews grow bigger by the day."
Marina director, Porto Montenegro, Oliver Korlet emphasised that Porto Montenegro is honoured to host a part of Montenegro's naval tradition. Porto Montenegro had financed the project, after obtaining necessary permission of the country's Ministry of Defence.
